US EditionDon’t be fooled by El Niño: A “quieter” hurricane season can still be dangerous
CSU projects 13 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes, but researchers say one landfalling storm can still cause major damage.
- Colorado State University researchers predict a quieter 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, forecasting 13 named storms, six hurricanes, and two major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.
- A developing climate pattern in the Pacific is the primary factor expected to inhibit storm formation, creating hostile upper-level winds across the Atlantic.
- Sea surface temperatures have continued to climb for the past 50 years, providing fuel for storms. Research scientist Levi Silvers noted, "Sometimes warm ocean waters win the battle."
- Last year, Melissa killed at least 95 people in Jamaica, becoming the strongest hurricane to hit the island. Researchers emphasize a below-average season can still deliver dangerous impacts.
- People need to remain prepared despite the quieter forecast, as Silvers said, "We know hurricanes are gonna form every year." CSU updates its outlooks throughout the season.
16 Articles
16 Articles
Hurricane Season Is Going to Look a Little Different This Year, Scientists Say
It’s that time of year once again, wherein I, a Floridian, wonder if this will be the summer that a major hurricane finally blows the roof off my home. Thankfully, according to the early outlook for the 2026 hurricane season, it seems like the complete and utter destruction of my home is (fingers crossed, knock on wood) not in the cards, as this season is slated to be slightly less apocalyptic. According to researchers at Colorado State Universi…
CSU releases 2026 Hurricane Season forecast: strong El Nino plays major role
The Tropical Meteorology Project at Colorado State University (CSU) has officially released its highly anticipated annual outlook for the 2026 Atlantic Basin hurricane season. While the historical average (1991–2020) sits at 14 named storms and 7 hurricanes, CSU’s 2026 outlook calls for 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 2 major hurricanes.
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